The Rain Forest Cafe in Downtown Disney is always a good place to go and have lunch or dinner while enjoying some of the best dining atmosphere you can imagine.
Located at the far east end of Downtown Disney in Orlando, Rain Forest appears in the form of a volcano that towers over the rest of the complex. As you enter you are met with gorillas, giraffes, elephants, and monkeys, all animatronic, who come to life every 12 minutes as a rain storm moves through the restaurant and gives the kids a thrill. Seating is on a waiting list but you can make reservations online as long as you do it 24-48 hours in advance.
The menu is varied with a great selection of burgers and sandwiches, seafood, steak, or combo plates, along with delicious pasta dishes. My favorite is the jambalaya, which is well-prepared and perfect every time. My kids enjoy the pasta and burgers. I've only had the seafood there once and I cant remember what it was but I do remember it was good. There is a full service bar you can sit and enjoy, and you are welcome to walk around taking pictures while you wait.
Pricing is a little on the high side. If you stick to lunch items you can eat for about $65-$75 for a family of four. Dinner for four costs us between $95 and $100 without appetizer or dessert so it's a little more than the average family usually spends but if you only come to Orlando occasionally it is worth the experience. They do have a kids menu which has a good variety of choices.
Service is always fantastic and the wait staff is hospitable and efficient. It's always a positive experience for us and I think you'll enjoy it. I give the place an "A" for service, cleanliness, atmosphere, and food quality. The only detractor is the high prices. They do honor the Disney Dining Plan and every now and then they have specials but not often. You are, however, guaranteed a fun dining experience so give it a try when you come down and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
